If you are injured on the job, you may wonder whether or not you need the services of an Oklahoma workers’ compensation attorney. If your employer is allowing you to collect any lost wages, have your medical expenses covered and be retained, are legal services really necessary?
While on the outside, the system may seem fairly simple; however, it can be an adversarial process that will require an attorney who understands the specific law for workers’ compensation in Oklahoma, which is changing soon. Our attorneys will help to ensure that your injury is accepted and that you receive adequate treatment for any injuries that you incur. More importantly, we will ensure that you receive the benefits that you are entitled to.
Some of the most common pitfalls that can confuse an injured worker are highlighted here. Once you understand these issues, you will clearly see the benefits of consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney.
Claim Denial:
There are situations where your employer may deny that you were injured, or deny that it happened at the work place. Also, in fear of losing your job, you may delay reporting the injury. Our attorneys can link the injury to the workplace with enough evidence, thus negating the denial by the employer.
Treating Physician Complications:
There are many states that will only allow you to collect workers compensation if you visit a physician that has been approved by your employer. In some cases, this physician may clear you to return to work prior to you being completely healed from your injury. A well-versed workers’ compensation attorney can help you find a health care provider that will ensure your best interest is the focus of the treatment.
Retaliation:
It is against the law, in any state, for an employee to be punished or fired for filing a workers compensation claim. Your attorney will be able to uncover the reasons for your dismissal or your demotion and then file a lawsuit against your employer if the situation occurs.
Claims from Third Parties:
If you are injured due to the negligence of a party that is not your employer, or a product that is defective, an attorney familiar with workers compensation claims will be able to file a claim against this third party and recover more compensation for your injury.
When you take the initiative to hire a workers compensation attorney, you will have the peace of mind that you receive the fair treatment and compensation that you deserve.
Peace of mind combined with the actual amount of compensation you need allows you to recover properly and then get back to work. If you cannot recover as needed and your employer is holding you back, then you need to speak with an attorney and push for legal representation.
Sometimes just speaking with an attorney will encourage your employer to compensate you for your injury on the job. To start speaking with an Oklahoma workers compensation attorney, just call us here at Johnson & Biscone: 405-232-6490.
